ISLAMABAD: PML-N Spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb has demanded the inclusion of cameramen and photographers as journalist in the Media Protection Bill.
In a statement issued here on Tuesday, Marriyum said it was grossly wrong to take away the status of photographers and cameramen as journalists because they play a frontline role in bringing news and events into public view. She said photographers and cameramen were always at the forefront of wars and conflicts, which was why they needed more protection as a journalist instead of being stripped off their professional title.
“What kind of protection bill is this that completely ignores such an important sector of journalism? Around the world, cameramen, photographers are regarded even more than reporters for their valiant coverage of in hazardous regions. Removing cameramen and photographers from the ranks of journalists was a sign of ignorance of journalism, media and professional matters,” she stressed.
The former information minister said the concerns among the cameramen and photographers community were understandable, the government should correct this mistake immediately.
She said the PML-N stands united with the photographers and cameramen, and will continue to raise its voice at every forum for their rights. She also urged the media organizations to raise their voices to protect the professional rights of their colleagues.